Archive | Retail

In And Out

Pop-up shops have become a frequent method for licensors to test products, forge a connection with fans, and spur coverage in traditional and digital media. In fact, the number of pop-up initiatives tied to licensed properties proliferated in 2014, especially in the second half of the year. The technique is being adopted broadly, across property […]

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The Changing Retail-to-Retail Landscape

Back in 2011, several retailers began launching licensing programs in which they lent their brand names or proprietary labels to outside manufacturers, who were allowed to distribute the products in other, non-competitive retail channels. Chains including Kitson, Eddie Bauer, Fred Segal, Frederick’s of Hollywood, Ann Taylor, Bombay Co., and more have signed such deals in […]

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Calling All Designers

Electronics retailers are starting to take a step into fashion licensing by forging exclusive deals with designers and celebrities to raise their reputations when it comes to style. Best Buy has highlighted two such ventures during the fourth quarter. It is exclusively carrying a line of 50 Kate Spade New York-licensed tech accessories, ranging from […]

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Specialty Stores Still Struggle

As we near the end of 2014, three bankruptcies disclosed at the end of last week—Mexx, Delia’s, and Deb Shops—illustrate the continuing challenges faced by many retailers, particularly in the specialty fashion tier. Each of these chains varies in its scope, strategy, and target audience, and in the role played by licensed products. Netherlands-based Mexx […]

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